For the world to see: Afghan mother shows acid attack burns

An
Afghan woman who suffered horrific burns after a man allegedly threw a
powerful acid in her face is bravely showing her scars for the world to
see in an attempt to raise awareness of such attacks being perpetrated
against women worldwide. The 29-year-old mother of four named Akhtara
lives in a one-bedroom home with her children in Kabul, Afghanistan.

Akhtara has been unable to find work to support her four children since the attack and is forced to beg in order to support her children.

Highlights

LOS ANGELES, CA (Catholic Online) - Her story is like so many other women in her nation. She married a rich, elderly man at the age of 10. Her husband was later killed by a jealous nephew, she claims.

The nephew, named Amanullah, killed her husband before asking her for her hand in marriage. He then left Kabul for Pakistan, but returned three years later to the mother's home.

When she opened the door, Amanullah reportedly threw the acid in her face, leaving her with horrific scars.

"On the night my husband was killed I was overwhelmed with grief. Amanullah came and asked me if I wanted to remain a widow until I die or whether I wanted to marry him," she told Voice of America. "He promised to give me money and look after me.

"Three years after the death of my husband I heard a knock on the door. In my heart I thought he has comeback to apologize for his actions. He immediately threw acid in my face. It felt like my face was on fire."

Akhtara has been unable to find work to support her four children since the attack and is forced to beg in order to support her children. Her family often goes without, surviving on a diet of bread and tea.

The United Nations General Assembly has launched its International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women.

Pope Francis Prayer Intentions for March 2015
Universal: Scientists: That those involved in scientific research may serve the well-being of the whole human person.
Evangelization: Contribution of women: That the unique contribution of women to the life of the Church may be recognized always.

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